Omega Pharma - Quick-Step Cycling Team rider Michal Kwiatkowski, took over the Tour de Pologne GC lead in the 127km 4th Stage on Friday.
He was 2nd going into the stage, trailing Moreno Moser (Liquigas-Cannondale). However, his time gap was so narrow that all he needed was intermediate sprint points to take over the lead. He won a sprint, and is now at the top of the GC rankings. Tom Boonen was crucial to taking the sprint points, leading him out and also taking 2nd.
"I'm over the moon," Kwiatkowski said."The public sang 'Happy Birthday' to me, even though my birthday was June 2nd. My family and my girlfriend were also at the race. It was amazing! It's one of the most important moments of my career. It was an emotional moment when I wore the yellow jersey in front of the public of my country. I always dreamt about it. Even my familiy was here, it was an unique moment. Concerning the race, the team did a great job. At the bonification sprint Tom showed what kind of a great champion he is. He pulled for me and I won the sprint gaining 3". At that point we tried also to organize a train for the sprint but it was a little bit too dangerous so we decided to not take any risks. I'm really happy. I'm entering in the most important phase of the race with a great morale. Tomorrow, and the day after tomorrow, will be a fight on the mountains, but we are ready. The team is strong and I feel good. I will try until the end to defend this jersey."